Microsoft could have a new Elite 2 controller under wraps for 2019

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Microsoft released the Elite controller for the Xbox One in 2015. That is a controller with button and paddle mappings which players can customize with its app. The Elite also includes a few swappable components, such as the D-pad and thumbsticks. It is a great gamepad you can play both Xbox and Windows games with, and now a new patent highlights that Microsoft could have an Elite 2 controller under wraps for 2019.

Is there a new Xbox One elite controller coming out?

The FPO website includes a Nov. 13, 2018, patent PDF from Microsoft. The patent shows us a gamepad with a similar design to the Xbox One Elite. It is officially titled “Game controller with removable controller accessory,” and the patent abstract states:

A game controller includes an electronic input sensor and a mounting platform. The mounting platform includes an accessory-retention feature and a sensor-activation feature. The accessory-retention feature is configured to removably affix a selected removable controller accessory to the mounting platform. The selected removable controller accessory is one of a plurality of differently configured removable controller accessories removably affixable to the mounting platform.

The patent provides a glimpse of a gamepad that is more customizable than the original Elite. The mounting platform enables players to configure the gamepad by replacing removable parts, such as its D-pad, trigger and button components. Thus, it is a controller with a modular design.

There has been some speculation that Microsoft might release an Elite 2 since January 2018. Then leaked images on the Baidu website seemingly included a new Elite controller model with rechargeable batteries and a Type-C connector. Thereafter, many expected Microsoft to showcase a new Elite gamepad at E3 2018. However, Microsoft did not announce an Elite 2 at E3.

The new gamepad patent will certainly renew speculation that Microsoft will unveil an Elite 2 in 2019. If Microsoft does release an Elite 2, it might be the most customizable controller ever for both Xbox and Windows games. You can check out the full Microsoft patent at this page.